PM to launch solar irrigation scheme

Raipur: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the 16th Statehood Day celebrations during his one-day visit to Chhattisgarh on November 1.

He will also launch Saur Sujala Yojana that aims to install 51,000 solar pumps for irrigation in the state.

Chief minister Raman Singh told reporters at Naya Raipur that Prime Minster Modi during his stay in the state capital will dedicate state's first man-made jungle safari developed in an area of 320 hectares in the state capital and will also unveil a statue of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya at Ekatm Path developed at Naya Raipur, state's new capital city.

Referring to the solar irrigation pump scheme to be launched by PM, Singh said that the project aims to provide pollution free and liability free electricity throughout the year to the farmers for their irrigation purpose.

Pointing out that priority would be given to the fields of those farmers who don't have access to electricity for irrigation, he said that Prime Minister Modi had appreciated Chhattisgarh's scheme and has decided to implement this scheme across the country. Chhattisgarh, which was carved out of Madhya Pradesh in November 2000, is organising a five-day celebration to mark the state's 16th foundation day.

Prime Minister Modi will inaugurate the celebrations at 'Rajyotsav' venue at 1.30pm on November 1. State's prominent and renowned artists will perform during the cultural programmes till November 5. Union home minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to attend the valedictory function on November 5.